In a significant move to ensure fair and equitable policy-making in the medical device sector, the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) released the Global Tender Enquiry (GTE) exemption list on Friday, June 28, 2024.

Mr. Pavan Choudary, Chairman of the Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI), lauded the initiative, calling it a "path-breaking effort" by the government. "This exercise has leveled the playing field and its ultimate beneficiary will be the patient, who will have continued access to quality products until reliable import substitutes are available," Choudary said.

He added that the move enhances India's reputation as a reliable manufacturing destination, boosting both exports and foreign investment.

The GTE exemption list was finalized after a rigorous two-day review chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals.

The review committee included representatives from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Both global and domestic manufacturers were invited to present supporting documents and justifications for their claims. More than 100 representatives from various MediTech companies participated in the review.

Choudary noted that the thorough review process ensured that some claims from all stakeholders were dismissed. "This was natural due to the irreproachable jury of users and experts. To the best of our knowledge, no other government has gone to such painstaking lengths to serve justice to the patient or the industry," he said.

The DoP's initiative marks a significant step in maintaining the quality and reliability of medical devices in India, benefiting both patients and the industry while fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation.